TECHNICAL SERIES No. 55
International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis
Geronticus eremita
Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian
Migratory Waterbirds (AEWA)
International Single Species Action Plan
for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis
Geronticus eremita
Revision 1
AEWA Technical Series No. 55
November 2015
Produced by
The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), United Kingdom
BirdLife International
Prepared with financial support from
The Saudi Wildlife Authority (SWA), Saudi Arabia
Jazan University, Saudi Arabia
Compiled by: Chris Bowden
Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), The Lodge, Sandy, Bedfordshire, SG19 2DL, United Kingdom
Email: [email protected]
Contributors:
Muhannad Abutarab (Syria), Mohammad Al-Salamah (Saudi Arabia), HHP Bandar bin Saud bin Mohammad
Al-Saud (Saudi Arabia), Ruba Alssarhan (Syria), Nabegh Ghazal Asswad (Syria), Christiane Boehm (International
Advisory Group for the Northern Bald Ibis [IAGNBI] expert), Chris Bowden (Coordinator), Sergey Dereliev
(UNEP/AEWA Secretariat), George Eshiamwata (BirdLife Africa),Mihret Ewnetu (Ethiopia), Amina Fellous
(IAGNBI Algeria), Johannes Fritz (IAGNBI Austria), Hamida Salhi (Algeria), Jaber Harise (Saudi Arabia), Taner
Hatipoglu (Turkey), Sureyya Cevat Isfendiyaroglu (Turkey), Sharif Al Jbour (Eastern regional co-coordinator),
Mike Jordan (IAGNBI South Africa) Omar Al Khushaim (Saudi Arabia), Nina Mikander (UNEP/AEWA
Secretariat), Moulay Melliani Khadidja (Algeria), José Manuel López (Spain), Yousuf Mohageb (Yemen),
Noaman Mohamed (Morocco), Ammar Momen (Saudi Arabia), Rubén Moreno-Opo (Spain), Widade Oubrou
(Morocco), Jorge Fernandez Orueta (Western regional co-coordinator), Lubomir Peske (IAGNBI expert), Miguel
Angel Quevedo (IAGNBI Spain), Roger Safford (BirdLife International), Gianluca Serra (IAGNBI expert), Rob
Sheldon (Independent), Mohammed Shobrak (Saudi Arabia), Dawit Tesfai (Eritrea), Zafar Ul Islam (Saudi
Arabia), Can Yeniyurt (Turkey), Yacob Yohannes (Eritrea), Fehmi Yuksel (Turkey).
Milestones in the Production of the Plan:
Stakeholder
Workshop: 1st Meeting of the AEWA Northern Bald Ibis International Working Group (NBI IWG),
Jazan, Saudi Arabia, 19-22 November 2012
First draft: Presented to the NBI IWG in October 2014
Second draft: Presented to the AEWA Technical Committee in March 2015, circulated to range states for
formal consultation in April 2015 and approved for submission to the 6th Session of the Meeting
of the Parties to AEWA (MOP6), by the AEWA Standing Committee in August 2015
Final draft: Adopted by MOP6, Bonn, Germany, 9-14 November 2015
Geographical scope
This International Single Species Action Plan requires implementation in the following countries: Algeria, Eritrea,
Ethiopia, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Turkey, and Yemen.
Reviews
This International Single Species Action Plan supersedes the previous version adopted at the 3rd Session of the
Meeting of the Parties to AEWA, 2005, and should be revised again in 2025. An emergency review shall be
undertaken if there are sudden major changes liable to affect the population.
Recommended citation
Bowden, C.G.R. (Compiler) 2015. International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern
Bald Ibis (Geronticus eremita). AEWA Technical Series No. 55. Bonn, Germany.
Picture on cover: Northern Bald Ibis (Geronticus eremita) © Torsten Pröhl.
Disclaimer: The designation employed and the presentation of the material in this document do not imply the
expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of UNEP/AEWA concerning the legal status of any State,
territory, city or area, or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of their frontiers and boundaries.
This International Single Species Action Plan represents a full revision of, and supersedes the 2005 version
(AEWA Technical Series No. 10).
AEWA Technical Series No. 55
International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis 3
Contents
Abbreviations and Acronyms ................................................................................................................... 4
Preface ..................................................................................................................................................... 5
Executive Summary ................................................................................................................................. 6
1. Biological Assessment ........................................................................................................................ 8
1.3 Distribution Throughout the Annual Cycle ................................................................................... 8
1.4. Habitat Requirements ................................................................................................................. 11
1.5. Survival and Productivity ........................................................................................................... 12
1.6. Population Sizes and Trends ...................................................................................................... 13
2. Threats ............................................................................................................................................... 18
2.1. General Overview ...................................................................................................................... 18
2.2 Critical and High Threats ............................................................................................................ 18
2.3. Medium Threats ......................................................................................................................... 20
3. Knowledge Needs.............................................................................................................................. 23
4. Policies and Legislation Relevant for Management .......................................................................... 24
4.1. International Conservation and Legal Status of the Species .................................................... 24
4.2 National Policies, Legislation and Ongoing Activities ............................................................. 25
4.3 Site and Habitat Protection ....................................................................................................... 26
4.4 Recent Conservation Measures and Coordination of Implementation ..................................... 27
4.5 The Potential Role for Reintroduction ...................................................................................... 29
5. Ongoing Translocation Projects and their Potential Association with the ISSAP ............................ 30
6. Framework for Action ....................................................................................................................... 32
7. Awareness Raising and Communication Work .................................................................................. 43
8. References ......................................................................................................................................... 44
Appendix 1 - AEWA Northern Bald Ibis International Working Group Terms of Reference ............... 47
AEWA Technical Series No. 55
4 International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis
Abbreviations and Acronyms
BLI/BLME BirdLife International /BirdLife Middle East
DD Doğa Derneği Nature Society / BirdLife Turkey
HCEFLD Haut Commissariat aux Eaux et Fôrets et à la Lutte contre la Désertification
IAGNBI International Advisory Group on the Northern Bald Ibis
ICARDA International Centre for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas – Morocco
MAAR Ministry of Agriculture and Agrarian Reform – Syria
ISSAP AEWA International Single Species Action Plan
SEO/BirdLife Sociedad Española de Ornitología / BirdLife Spain
SSC Species Survival Commission of the IUCN
SSCW Syrian Society for Conservation of Wildlife
ACSAD The Arab Centre for the Study of Arid Zones and Dry Lands
RSPB The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds
IUCN The World Conservation Union
NBI IWG AEWA Northern Bald Ibis International Working Group
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International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis 5
Preface
The first AEWA International Single Species Action Plan (ISSAP) for the Conservation of the Northern
Bald Ibis was approved by the 3rd Session of the Meeting of the Parties to AEWA in 2005. A revision
of this ISSAP led by Mr Chris Bowden (RSPB) commenced at the 1st Meeting of the AEWA Northern
Bald Ibis International Working Group (NBI IWG) in November 2012 in Jazan, Saudi Arabia. The
resulting draft was circulated to the Jazan workshop participants in October 2014.
The second draft was consulted with the AEWA Technical Committee in March 2015 and was submitted
for formal consultation with the range states in April 2015. The final draft was endorsed by the AEWA
Standing Committee in August 2015 and approved by the 6th Session of the Meeting of the Parties to
AEWA in November 2015.
This revised Action Plan is based on the AEWA International Single Species Action Plan for the
Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis1 adopted by the 3rd Meeting of the AEWA Parties in 2005, which
remains an invaluable source of published information on the species.
1 http://www.unep-aewa.org/sites/default/files/publication/ts10_ssap_nbi_complete_0.pdf
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6 International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis
Executive Summary
The Northern Bald Ibis (Geronticus eremita) is classified as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red
List due to its small range and small population size. The species has undergone a serious decline over
a period of hundreds of years, with a particularly sharp downturn recorded since the 1950s, attributed to
a combination of habitat loss, DDT pesticide poisoning, direct persecution and disturbance. The main
threats the species now faces vary in the countries where it still occurs.
Once distributed over much of North and North East Africa, central Europe and the Middle East, the
Northern Bald Ibis now remains in two geographically distinct populations, which are also genetically
distinct:
Main western population (W) occurs in Morocco, where the population now numbers 115
breeding pairs).
Main eastern population (E) the relict population of three pairs rediscovered in 2002 has since
dwindled and by 2013 no breeding pairs apparently persisted in Syria. The wild population could
now be considered extinct although a few birds still occur in the wintering area. A semi-wild
population exists and is now increasing in Turkey, which constitutes a very important genetic
resource for a time when reintroduction methodology has been developed further.
The main focus of this International Single Species Action Plan is the conservation of these two
populations. In addition, the Action Plan takes into account released populations being established in
the historic range in Europe (Spain and Austria/Germany/Italy) and how these can develop the
methodology needed for future releases within the priority areas.
The Northern Bald Ibis currently occurs in eight countries within the AEWA Agreement Area. These
are referred to as Principle Range States and have the major responsibility for its implementation:
Algeria (W) Eritrea (E) Saudi Arabia (E)
Turkey (E)
Ethiopia (E) Morocco (W) Syria (E) Yemen (E)
This plan identifies the key threats to the species as well as the key actions required to improve the
conservation status of the Northern Bald Ibis in the Principle Range States. In addition, there have been
incidental but very brief recent occurrences of the species in Jordan, Sudan and Djibouti. These countries
have, however, not been included in this Action Plan for pragmatic reasons, although this could change
for future updates.
The Goal of this Action Plan is to restore the Northern Bald Ibis to a favourable conservation status. It
is aimed to downlist the species from the globally threatened categories on the IUCN Red List and from
Column A, category 1 of AEWA Table 1.
The Purpose is to increase the population size and breeding range of the species. To meet this goal, the
following four objectives (to be achieved by 2025) are set out in the plan:
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International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis 7
Objective 1: Increase reproduction success
Objective 2: Reduce adult/juvenile mortality
Objective 3: Establish new colonies
Objective 4: Fill key knowledge gaps
The plan also identifies Results and Actions through which each objectives is to be delivered.
This plan covers the period 2016 to 2025. A revision should be undertaken in 2025. However, an
emergency review can be undertaken prior to 2025 if there are any sudden major changes liable to effect
either population.
The implementation of the plan will be coordinated and reviewed by the inter-governmental AEWA
Northern Bald Ibis International Working Group which is open to all range states and relevant
stakeholder organisations.
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8 International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis
1. Biological Assessment
1.1. General Information
The Northern Bald Ibis or Waldrapp Ibis (Geronticus eremita) is about 70-80 cm long and weighs 1,000-
1,500 g. The body is elongated with a fairly long neck. The legs are fairly long and brownish red. Head
and throat are naked and deep red. The nape feathers are elongated. Juvenile birds up to two years have
feathers on head and neck, which are greyish-brown and shorter than in adults.
1.2. Taxonomy and Biogeographic Populations
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Aves
Order: Ciconiiformes
Suborder: Ciconiae
Family: Threskiornithidae
Subfamily: Threskiornithinae
Genus: Geronticus
Species: Geronticus eremita L. 1758
The Northern Bald Ibis is a monotypic species with two genetically distinct populations having just one
congeneric species in southern Africa, Southern Bald Ibis Geronticus calvus. The main Western
population in Morocco is maintaining a relatively stable if still precariously small population, whilst for
the Eastern population the situation has deteriorated further towards the brink of extinction. Meanwhile
there has been significant progress over the past ten years with captive and semi-wild reintroduction
trials which are showing new potential for re-establishing populations within the former range.
Although there are no major morphological distinctions between the eastern and western populations,
there is evidence (Pegoraro et al. 2001, Broderick et al. 2001) of a genetic distinction between them,
and it should be noted that the majority of the very substantial captive population, including the birds
used for releases in Europe, are of Western (Moroccan) origin. A comprehensive genetic study is
underway.
1.3 Distribution Throughout the Annual Cycle
Breeding for both Eastern and Western populations takes place from late February until early June, with
egg laying from late March into April. In the non-breeding season, the eastern adult population remains
in highland grassland habitats of unintensive agriculture in Ethiopia, whilst sub-adults (at least in recent
times) apparently spend this time wandering within the Arabian Peninsula (Saudi Arabia and Yemen)
and it is possible that some may even linger further north.
The remaining Western population shows some signs of dispersing south within Morocco, especially
during the two months immediately following the breeding season. Although it is possible that a few
may still venture outside Morocco as early records show was formerly the case, the vast majority
certainly remain in Morocco in relatively close proximity to the two coastal breeding sites near Agadir.
AEWA Technical Series No. 55
International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis 9
1.3.1. Eastern population
Satellite tagging of birds in Syria has helped map the migration route for the Eastern population (Lindsell
et al. 2009 Figure 1) and how the birds move very quickly south in June and July, spending a few weeks
in Saudi Arabia and Yemen, before crossing the Red Sea to the Ethiopian highlands in August. Juvenile
and sub-adult birds appear to stop off along the same route and although information is less well
substantiated, it appears that some may even remain further north, which may mean they are more
exposed to higher mortality risks including illegal hunting (Serra et al. 2014). It should be noted that
Jordan, Eritrea and Sudan also regularly host the migrating birds but only very briefly.
Figure 1. Migratory route of the Eastern population as it was discovered in 2006 through satellite
telemetry. Autumn southward journey to the east, spring northward journey to the west, each of them
being about 3,200 km long. (map from Lindsell et al. 2009)
1.3.2. Western population
The Western population breeds at two main sites in Morocco. Observations and preliminary tagging
work has shown that birds from the Western population (in Morocco) regularly interchange between the
two Moroccan breeding sites during the non-breeding period, but knowledge of juvenile post-breeding
period dispersal is not yet fully understood. However, a limited number of birds do move hundreds of
kilometres to the south along the coast.
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10 International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis
By February, most of the birds including immature individuals and non-breeding sub-adults visit the
breeding sites, and the breeding populations mainly forage within 25 km of the two main breeding sites
using the steppe and un-intensive agricultural habitats within Souss-Massa National Park and the Tamri
area just 100km to the north (Bowden et al. 2003).
Outside the breeding season, the majority of birds still feed and roost within the boundaries of the
National Park and within 20 km of Tamri (Figure 2 below from Bowden et al. 2003). Historical records
strongly suggest that the now extinct populations from further north in Morocco (primarily Atlas and
Middle Atlas ranges), and very probably including the small former population in Algeria, were more
migratory than the two remaining colonies, and regularly wintered further south in Morocco and even
as far as Mauritania and Mali. Recent studies in Europe involving descendants from the Moroccan Atlas
populations, indicate that these birds are able to adapt to a migratory lifestyle (Portugal et al. 2014;
Voelkl et al. (in prep.); Bairlein et al. (in prep.).
Figure 2. The two remaining Western population colonies in Morocco occur in Souss-Massa national
Park and in the region of Tamri. (map from Bowden et al. 2003)
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International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis 11
1.4. Habitat Requirements
1.4.1 Breeding habitat selection and use
The general habitat of the Northern Bald Ibis during the breeding season is the combination of available
cliff nesting sites in sufficiently close proximity to large areas of feeding habitat. This usually consists
of semi-arid and rocky plains, but in close proximity (less than 15-20 km) to cultivated land, steppe and
meadows which it uses to forage. It is a colonial breeder and the nests of loosely constructed twigs and
vegetation are placed on cliff ledges at least one-metre-wide which may be sea or large river cliffs and
occasionally, even large buildings. It will also use artificial ledges.
However, the height, size and shape of the ledges are all important in terms of safety from predators and
other disturbance and also the aspect and the amount of shade provided (Pegoraro 1996). The remaining
population in Morocco exclusively uses sea cliffs, (Bowden et al. 2003) whilst that in Syria uses
limestone rock faces (Serra et al. 2009) – all of which are extremely difficult for humans to access. The
semi-wild population in Turkey occupies mainly artificial nest boxes as well as some provided rock
platforms and a small minority nests on natural rock faces and caverns.
1.4.2 Feeding habitat selection and use including at stopover sites
The diet of the Northern Bald Ibis includes any available animal life including insects, spiders,
scorpions, earthworms, snails and vertebrates such as fish, amphibians, lizards and snakes (Aghnaj
et al. 2001, Serra et al. 2008), and even occasional small rodents and birds. It will also feed on vegetation
including berries, shoots, duckweed, and rhizomes of aquatic plants (Hancock et al. 1992).
Feeding areas in Morocco are primarily littoral steppe, fallow areas of cultivation, and occasionally
active but un-intensively cultivated areas. Feeding areas in Syria are not dissimilar, but somewhat
inferior, usually in undulating and degraded steppe with sparse dwarf shrubland within a large drainage
basin of mountain ranges (providing sheer cliffs for nesting). Probably due to the advanced degree of
degradation of the original feeding habitats, birds rely on temporary abundance of young toads living in
human-made artificial reservoirs (Serra et al. 2008).
The altitude of the feeding areas increases through the season from spring to the summer months (Serra
et al. 2008). The substrate of feeding areas varies enormously between soft mobile sand, through a full
range of other substrates to almost entirely rocky areas if there is a temporary abundance of prey in the
area, but these are all open terrain areas. Free flying birds in Central Europe almost exclusively use
meadows and pastures as feeding areas (Fritz & Unsöld 2011). The birds need sufficient visibility to
avoid approaching predators and also sufficiently open spaces to allow their characteristic (often fast
walking) foraging style, which is mainly tactile by probing within soft substrate, preferably soil and
sand. But they are also able to hunt using optical cues on and above the substrate surface.
Feeding areas during the breeding season in Morocco were always within 26 km of the nesting sites, but
most areas were less than half that distance (Bowden et al. 2003). It is important that the vegetation is
either sparse and open (semi-arid areas) or not taller than 10 to 15 cm (meadows and pasture). Changes
in vegetation structure and in cultivation may lead to quick abandonment of feeding areas and nesting
grounds (Hirsch pers. comm.)
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12 International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis
Little is known about the use of habitats whilst birds are on migration, although satellite tracking and
surveys in the field have shown that, in addition to open arid habitats, they also use recent or active
cultivations (Serra et al. 2010). GPS tracking data from the released European birds indicate that during
migration, they use habitats with similar characteristics to those in the breeding area, ie mainly meadows
and pastures with low vegetation.
The scarcity of trees and cliffs along the Eastern migration route means that tall human-made objects
including electricity pylons are often used for roosting and these present their own hazards as was
demonstrated in Jordan when there was an electrocution incident of at least three birds (Serra et al.
2014). Also for the released European birds, electrocution along the migration route is a major cause of
mortality (Fritz & Unsöld 2013). In Turkey, the semi-wild population frequently forages in the
surrounding areas despite the food provisioning there. Areas used include a large tree nursery,
agricultural fields, margins of the Euphrates River and areas of grassland steppe.
1.4.3. Winter habitat selection and use
In the main Moroccan breeding areas, the winter distribution is largely similar to that during the breeding
season. There are some seasonal variations and areas of littoral steppe still within the Souss-Massa
National Park, which are used more extensively outside the breeding season, as are some otherwise more
heavily disturbed and unprotected areas north of Agadir.
For the Eastern population, satellite tracking has uncovered the main wintering grounds and the majority
of the relict population has consistently returned to a very restricted area in highland Ethiopia. The birds
utilise wet and dry pastures, including recently cut hayfields, in an area where human disturbance is low,
but it is also notable that there is no evidence of any hunting pressures. Repeated visits have shown that
the birds consistently use the same areas (mostly just 9 km2) and utilise tall trees for roosting (Serra
et al. 2013).
1.5. Survival and Productivity
1.5.1. Nest survival and causes of nest loss
The nest is a loose construction of twigs lined with smaller sticks, grass or straw. Eggs are very pale
blue and weigh on average 50.1g. Clutch size averages around three but regularly varies between one
and five. Incubation is 24-28 days, and the fledging period 40-50 days. The time to full independence
varies between individuals, but is usually about two months. Both parents incubate and feed the chicks.
The age of maturity is three years (in captivity), but apparently, in some cases, even longer in the wild
(Hirsch 1979).
At the Moroccan colonies, 9.1% of clutches were lost during incubation and these were attributed to
nest destruction by other ibis individuals and Common Ravens (Corvus corax) although there was also
evidence of nocturnal predation, possibly by Pharaoh Eagle Owl (Bubo ascalaphus) and for the majority
of such clutches, they simply went missing with no known cause (Bowden et al. 2008). Limited Syrian
information shows similar trends and causes (Serra et al. 2009a & 2011). Clearly in the absence of
wardening, human disturbance and predation has also been a major factor as wardens have prevented
potentially serious disturbance and predation events both in Morocco and Syria (Bowden et al. 2008,
Serra et al. 2009a & b).
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International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis 13
Failed clutches are only replaced by relaying eggs, if the failure happens early in the season, and chick
survival is much more variable and apparently mainly related to climatic conditions and resulting food
availability (see below). It was demonstrated that chick survival can be significantly improved by
provision of a regular nearby water source (Smith et al. 2009).
1.5.2. Productivity and annual survival
Between 1994 and 2004, the reproduction rate per breeding pair has varied from 0.6 to 1.6 fledged
chicks in Morocco (El Bekkay et al. 2003). Circumstances, such as time spent away from the nest when
the chicks are young, may have the biggest influence in the reproductive success, which is largely
influenced by the proximity of feeding areas and recent climatic conditions (especially rainfall),
affecting food availability, particularly the abundance of invertebrates. (Bowden et al. 2003, Smith
et al. 2009). Intensive round-the-clock protection was certainly a factor in the production in Syria during
the period 2002-2004, which was 1.75 chick per nest (Serra et al. 2009).
The Northern Bald Ibis is a long-lived species. In captivity, birds reach an average of 20-25 years (oldest
male 37 years, oldest female 30 years (Boehm 1999). Reproduction takes place when birds are two years
old, however normally only if they have an experienced older partner. Many birds only start breeding at
3-5 years. Breeding is possible until the age of 26-28, even if a bird has never bred before. However, the
peak breeding age is between 8-15 years for both sexes.
Satellite tracking revealed a particularly high mortality rate for immature birds during migration from
the Syrian colony (Serra et al. 2014) and it was suggested - despite the inevitably small sample - that
this may be driving the overall decline of that population.
1.6. Population Sizes and Trends
Since the beginning of the 20th century and even earlier, there have been sharp declines of both the
Western and Eastern populations.
1.6.1. Eastern population
Former records tell of thousands of birds (19th century, Danford 1880, Kummerloeve 1962); 3000 birds
in Birecik in1930, down to 400 in 1982, five pairs in 1986, seven in 1987 and one left in 1989 (Akcakaya
1990). The wild colony was declared extinct in 1992 (Akcakaya et al. 1992). The main cause of decline
was the use of pesticides (DDT) and human disturbance in Turkey, and hunting in Syria and when on
migration further south in Arabia.
In 2002 there was the discovery of a relict colony in Syria, with seven birds comprising three actively
breeding pairs (Serra et al. 2004). By 2012 however, only three birds returned from migration in spring,
and although there was one welcome addition soon after, making a total of four, just the one pair laid
eggs but failed to rear any young. No reinforcement was possible using Turkish birds that year, which
was a great pity as failed trial releases in 2011 had shown some very promising signs that this
methodology could succeed, with the released birds joining the wild ones on migration as far as southern
Saudi Arabia (Bowden et al. 2011).
Unfortunately, there have not been any breeding pairs subsequently recorded, despite four birds being
seen at the regular Ethiopian wintering site, just one adult female returning in both 2013 and 2014
(www.iagnbi.org). The wild population appears therefore to be on the very brink of extinction.
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14 International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis
1.6.2. Western population
The number of colonies in Morocco and Algeria has sharply declined since the early 20th century. The
last colony in Algeria disappeared in the late 1980s. In Morocco, in 1940 there were still about 38
colonies, in 1975, 15 and in 1989 only 3 colonies survived. Reasons for the decline were a combination
of human disturbance, hunting and the use of pesticides (Collar & Stuart 1985). Since the late 1990s the
population in Souss Massa NP has been stable and since 1999 increasing (Status in 2012 -105 breeding
pairs increasing to a recent high of 115 in 2014 (Oubrou & El Bekkay 2014). This overall positive trend
has continued, and although breeding failure at Tamri in 2012 is of concern, the figure of 105 which
includes pairs that failed to lay eggs is quite comparable and less alarming than the figure for pairs that
laid eggs suggests. This trend does however warrant closer attention in the coming year.
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International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis 15
Table 1. Population size in the wild and trend by country
Country Number of
birds
Breeding
pairs Quality
Year(s)
of the
estimate
Breeding
population
trend in the last
10 years (or 3
generations)
Quality
Morocco
524
(includes
recent
fledglings)
115 pairs
Good
(Observed)
2014
Stable &
Increasing
Good
(Observed)
Syria 1
(but 4 in
Ethiopia
wintering
site)
0
(1 bird)
Good
(Observed)
2014 Declining Good
(Observed)
Overall
528 115 pairs 2014
Table 2. Population size of semi-wild, release trials and captive populations
Country Number of
birds Quality
Year(s) of
the
estimate
Breeding
population trend
in the last 10
years (or 3
generations)
Quality
Turkey
(semi-wild)
189
Good (Observed)
2014
Increasing
Good
(Observed)
Turkey Zoos
(captive Turkish
stock)
Unknown at
time of
writing
-
-
Unknown at time
of writing
-
Syria (captive
Turkish stock)
3 Good (Observed) 2014 N/A Good
(Observed)
Austria
(trial release
Moroccan
stock)
42
(to be
updated)
Good (Observed) 2012
(to be
updated)
Increasing Good
(Observed)
Spain
(trial release-
Moroccan
stock)
74
(12 breeding
pairs)
Good (Observed) 2013 Increasing Good
(Observed)
Zoos (outside
Turkey)
(captive
Moroccan
stock)
c.3000
(1540
studbook
registered)
Medium (Estimated)
Good (Observed) for
studbook
2014 Stable/slight
decrease
Good
(Estimated)
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16 International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis
Birds now within the European Endangered Species Programme (EEP) including the European
Studbooks (ESB)1 number about 1,300 birds, and in addition there are studbooks in Japan with 120 birds
and in North America with another 120 birds, all of which are Moroccan stock. These populations are
stable and slightly decreasing, but the level of 1200 birds is being deliberately maintained at this level
since 65% of all birds are within the best breeding age of 8-15 years and genetic diversity is being
managed.
The eastern stock is much smaller, with almost the entire population held in a semi-wild state at Birecik
where birds are free-flying for half the year and numbers are increasing with improved management.
Other eastern stock is confined to very small numbers held in Turkish zoos, and three birds held in Syria.
All birds used in the release trials in Europe have been hatched and reared from the European studbook
Moroccan stock.
Table 3. Year of national, or breeding population, extinctions.
Breeding Formerly breeding (date
of extinction)
Migration (period)
Morocco
1900-1989 c.50 colonies
in Atlas, Middle Atlas,
Atlantic coast north of
Souss-Massa colonies.
(Collar & Stuart 1985)
All extinct populations were apparently migratory
(unlike the sedentary surviving population)
July-February
Algeria 1987-1990 (Fellous 2004)
Migrant June-Feb
Turkey 1989 extinction of wild
population (Arihan 1999)
Migrant early July to mid-February
Syria Thought extinct 1940s but
one colony rediscovered
2002
Migrant
Early July to mid-February
Germany 1593
Presumed to have been a summer migrant
wintering further south (no data, but see Conrad
Gessner 1555)
Austria 1621 Presumed to have been a summer migrant
wintering further south (no data, but see Conrad
Gessner 1555)
Switzerland 1535 Presumed to have been a summer migrant
wintering further south (no data, but see Conrad
Gessner account)
1 http://www.eaza.net/conservation/programmes/
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International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis 17
Table 4. Current range states for the species, the ones in bold being priority in which the Action Plan
should be implemented (countries in brackets where presence is only extremely brief so not currently
of major importance)
Breeding Migration Wintering Priority Release Potential
Morocco Saudi Arabia Ethiopia Turkey
Syria Yemen Morocco Syria
Eritrea (Djibouti) Algeria
(Jordan)
(Sudan)
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18 International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis
2. Threats
2.1. General Overview
The first AEWA Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis (Armesto
et al. 2006) identified the following critical threats:
Illegal building - primarily on the breeding grounds in Morocco;
Increased greenhouse crops, irrigated barley and other agricultural intensification around the
breeding grounds in Morocco;
Impact of overgrazing and firewood collection on the breeding grounds in Syria;
Intensive poultry farming in close proximity to main roost site poses disease risks potentially
affecting adult survival in Morocco.
Whilst measures have been taken specifically to reduce all of these critical threats during the lifetime of
the previous plan, all four remain as serious threats to the survival of the species.
In addition, since the adoption of the previous ISSAP it has emerged that there are additional key threats
mainly to the Eastern population which include:
Illegal hunting at the breeding site in Syria but especially along the migratory route;
Electrocution (power lines and particularly poorly designed electricity pylons) along the
migration route and Birecik area;
Breeding habitat degradation and destruction due to overgrazing and uncontrolled infrastructure
building (Syria).
These threats are exacerbated by the small population size.
The key threats to the Western population are the loss of breeding and feeding habitat through various
developments (both direct construction threats as well as various leisure/tourism activities that increase
human visitation, hang-gliding, surfing, sightseers and birdwatchers etc.), plus intensification and
changes of agricultural practices, most notably horticulture and higher intensity farming practices - and
the associated human disturbance at the breeding sites, but other factors like pesticide locust control in
feeding areas and poultry units in close proximity to roost sites etc. are also potentially critical. The
main threats for both populations as identified by the AEWA Northern Bald Ibis International Working
Group are outlined in more detail below.
2.2 Critical and High Threats
2.2.1. Hunting - Eastern population (critical)
The available evidence points to low survival rates particularly for subadult birds of the eastern
population, and to hunting as a primary source of this high mortality. Hunting mortality has been
indicated mainly in the Arabian Peninsula along the migration route and also in Syria (Serra et al. 2009a
& 2014). The fact that subadults spend more of their time in Arabia, coincides with the perception that
this is where the hunting threat is greatest. There have also been hunting mortality cases from Morocco
and this requires vigilance, but is a more incidental problem there, partly because the population is
largely sedentary. Even the Turkish population which is not thought to have suffered significant hunting
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International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis 19
pressure at Birecik could become susceptible, particularly with the recent influx of refugees from Syria.
It is however an issue that needs very serious and careful evaluation (e.g. by tagging birds of the
Moroccan population) for any potential reintroduction areas and plans. The release programme in
Central Europe has clearly demonstrated bird hunting as a major threat for establishing migratory
populations. A total of 65% of the losses during the period 2002-2012 can be assigned to illegal bird
hunting in Italy during autumn migration (Fritz & Unsöld 2013).
2.2.2. Infrastructure development - Morocco and Syria (critical)
Hotel and tourism developments, or other construction and leisure developments that directly reduce the
feeding areas or lead to direct disturbance of breeding or key roosting sites, pose an ever-increasing
threat both in Morocco and Syria, as well as in Turkey. Oil prospection has been an additional pressure
in Syria. Protection legislation and its implementation, requires increased efforts as these pressures
inevitably grow, and the Tamri area which supports half the Moroccan population is particularly in need
of more formal recognition and designation. Even within the Souss-Massa National Park, these threats
are still a major concern due to the limitations of the existing legislation (Bowden et al. 2008, Serra
et al. 2011).
2.2.3. Human disturbance at breeding sites - Eastern & Western populations (critical)
This issue has led to the abandonment of earlier sites altogether (Hirsch 1979, Pegoraro 1996) and
without adequate protection measures such as wardening and site protection in place, is still a major
issue in all cases. Note it may appear less of a priority where those measures are effective and already
in place.
2.2.4. The potential for disease to spread through breeding populations - Eastern & Western
populations (unknown, but potentially critical)
The mortality incident in Morocco in 1996 (Touti et al. 1999) highlighted the risks to the population
posed by disease or indeed a contaminated food or water source, exacerbated by the highly social
behaviour and clustered distribution of the remaining birds. Close proximity of poultry facilities to
roosting sites in Morocco pose a serious risk that could be reduced, and the concentration of almost all
the remaining genetic source for the eastern population at Birecik in Turkey also leaves the population
highly susceptible to this unquantified but undoubtedly real risk (Cunningham 2000).
2.2.5. Use of locust treatments on the feeding grounds in Morocco (high, but potentially critical)
Locusts can feature prominently in the diet and any treatments can potentially cause dramatic mortality
through secondary poisoning. Use of lower toxicity pesticides and close contact between the control
agencies and the National Park have apparently helped avert any major impact in ‘locust years’ but this
requires ongoing concerted efforts (Cunningham 2000).
2.2.6. Expansion and intensification of agriculture and any switch to glasshouse crops - Morocco
(high)
Steppe and long-interval fallow fields are the primary feeding areas of the breeding population in
Morocco, and any increase in the frequency of cultivations, or more directly, if such areas are covered
by glasshouses and thereby effectively lost as feeding sites, will have a detrimental impact on the
overall habitat availability and thereby the carrying capacity (Bowden et al. 2009).
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20 International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis
2.2.7. Electrocution by powerlines and poorly designed electricity pylons - Eastern population (high)
There is strong evidence that electrocution is a contributing factor to the high adult and sub-adult
mortality for the eastern population in particular as well as in both Central Europe and Spanish release
projects. Perching and roosting on pylons is known to be frequent in areas where cliffs or tall trees are
not available, so along the migration route of the eastern population in particular (Serra et al. 2013).
This is reinforced with data from the Central European released birds. There, electrocution is the second
highest mortality cause (Fritz & Unsöld 2013). In Spain, the project there suffered comparable high
losses and has made major efforts to modify particular sections of pylons to help address this (Quevedo
pers. comm).
2.3. Medium Threats
2.3.1. Depleted food availability and lack of access to water (medium)
Years with relatively high rainfall have higher productivity, and the provision of water points close to
breeding sites in Morocco, was demonstrated as being statistically significant in improving chick
survival (Smith et al. 2008). Such measures and ensuring undisturbed access to water and adequate
feeding areas are key measures.
2.3.2. Overgrazing and firewood collection – Syria (medium)
Feeding areas are subject to degradation through unsustainable grazing pressure by goats as well as
firewood collection. These have negative impacts on Northern Bald Ibis prey abundance (Serra et al.
2008).
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International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis 21
Figure 3. Problem tree analysis: Threats causing low reproduction success and no establishment of new colonies (1 = critical, 2 = high, 3 = medium, 4 = low)
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22 International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis
Figure 4. Problem tree analysis: Threats causing high adult / juvenile mortality (1 = critical, 2 = high, 3 = medium, 4 = low)
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International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis 23
3. Knowledge Needs
Current knowledge of the Northern Bald Ibis is limited in several areas that have crucial relevance for
the successful implementation of comprehensive conservation measures.
Key areas identified by the AEWA Northern Bald Ibis International Working Group where gaps in
knowledge exist include:
Updated local assessments of immediate threats or pressures (both human and natural) at Moroccan
breeding and feeding sites (high);
Population assessment system continually updated and evaluated (Morocco, Syria & Turkey)
(high);
The frequentation of alternative sites (including former colonies) in the region of southern Morocco
and their suitability for colonisation is unknown (high);
The potential for re-colonisation of former breeding sites is unknown (high);
A method of managing juveniles after splitting up from migrating flock needs to be developed
(high);
More information is needed on the potential risk of power line collision and electrocution (high);
No population viability assessment for the Western and Eastern populations is available (medium);
The use of stop-over and wintering sites by birds is unknown (medium);
Actual sites identified through satellite tracking need to be verified, delineated and mapped
(medium);
There is a lack of understanding of feeding micro-habitat selection in breeding, stop-over and
wintering areas (medium);
Genetic make-up and levels of inbreeding/outbreeding have yet to be determined in the Eastern
(including Turkish semi-wild flock) population (medium);
Juvenile dispersal in the Western population needs to be mapped (medium);
The reasons for the extinction of former colonies are not yet understood and documented (medium);
The possible impact of parasites and disease is unknown (low);
The possible impact of windfarms is unknown (low).
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24 International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis
4. Policies and Legislation Relevant for Management
4.1. International Conservation and Legal Status of the Species
The Northern Bald Ibis (Geronticus eremita) is globally threatened, being recognised as Critically
Endangered on the IUCN Red List and it is listed in Column A of Table 1 of the Action Plan under the
African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbird Agreement (AEWA).
Table 5. Summary of the international conservation designations and legal status of the Northern Bald
Ibis
Global status
(IUCN Red-List)3
AEWA4 CMS5 CITES6 Bern
Convention7
EU Birds
Directive8
Critically
Endangered
(C2a(ii))
A1a, 1b &
1c
Appendix I &
II
Appendix I
Yes
No
It is important to note that the international instruments mentioned here – such as the Birds Directives
of the European Union – do not apply throughout the range of the Northern Bald Ibis.
Table 6. Applicability of major international conservation instruments to the Principal Range States
for the Northern Bald Ibis9
Principal range
state
EU
Member
State
Beneficiary of
EU European
Neighbourhood
Policy
Party to
AEWA
Party to
CMS
Party to
Bern
Party
to
CBD
Party to
Ramsar
Algeria
n/a yes yes yes n/a yes yes
Eritrea
n/a no no yes n/a yes no
Ethiopia
n/a no yes yes n/a yes no
Morocco
n/a yes yes yes yes yes yes
Saudi Arabia
n/a no no yes n/a yes no
Syria
n/a yes yes yes n/a yes yes
Turkey
no n/a* no no yes yes yes
Yemen n/a no no yes n/a yes yes
3 2014 IUCN Red List 4 Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbirds (www.unep-aewa.org) 5 Migratory species that have been categorised as being in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant
proportion of their range; for more details, see the Convention text of the Convention on the Conservation of
Migratory Species of Wild Animals (www.cms.int) 6 Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna, 1973 (www.cites.org) 7 Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats, Bern, 1979
(http://www.coe.int/en/web/bern-convention) 8 European Council Directive on the Conservation of Wild Birds (2009/147/EC 2009)
(http://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/legislation/birdsdirective/index_en.htm) 9 As per information posted on the websites of the relevant treaty Secretariats in August 2014
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International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis 25
* Turkey is an EU candidate country, which means that it can be eligible for EU funding but not as
primary proposer/benefactor.10
4.2 National Policies, Legislation and Ongoing Activities
The Northern Bald Ibis is legally protected across its range. However, implementation and enforcement
of conservation legislation remains a main challenge. Along the migration route of the eastern
population in particular (Syria, Yemen and Saudi Arabia), the enforcement of protection against hunting
is one of the biggest concerns. Such issues are also present in all range states.
Table 7. Conservation and protection status within each of the Principal Range States for the
Northern Bald Ibis
Principal
range state
Conservation and formal protection status (at
national level)
Remarks
Algeria Listed as a highly protected threatened species under
the ordinance n°06-05 of 15 July 2006 covering the
protection of certain threatened animal species
This ordinance is a high
level law where the
offender incurs heavy
penalties such as financial
sanctions and
imprisonment.
Eritrea No information at time of writing
-
Ethiopia Northern Bald Ibis (Waldrapp) has a legally protected
status in Ethiopia. This means that it cannot be hunted
or traded. The only time it can be collected is for
scientific or research ensuring the safe release of
birds.
Listed under the Wildlife Development Conservation
and Utilization Regulation, Council of Ministers'
Regulation – ref. regulation no 163/2008
Note the paucity of
records over the past
century has hindered
conservation attention for
the species. The recent
regular sightings
potentially provide a
premise for developing
conservation action
including formal
protection of the main
site and habitats.
Morocco Included in national legislation (hunting law), listed
as a protected species, permitting no hunting, capture,
holding in captivity, nor any egg, chick or nest
destruction.
The species is also protected by law 29-05 on the
protection of wild flora and fauna species regulating
trade (adopted in 2011).
Also by law on protected areas 22-07.
Note the legal text (29-
05) is in the process of
being adopted.
Saudi Arabia No information at time of writing
-
10 http://ec.europa.eu/enlargement/countries/detailed-country-information/turkey/index_en.htm
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26 International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis
Syria High profile protection due to national and
international attention since rediscovery in 2002. But
in formal terms is included in the draft updated
Hunting Law anticipated to be issued in 2015 together
with other endangered species.
Enforcement and
awareness within local
community is a key issue,
and progress is being
made.
Syrian Government
recognised the beneficial
role played by NBI in
national agriculture
through Decree n. 28
issued in 1967.
Turkey Fully Protected (Land Hunting Law coded 4915) Hunting of this species is
prohibited throughout
Turkey and all year
round.
Yemen No information at time of writing
-
Protection status is generally good (Table 7) and the species recognised as having importance, although
it is not given significant additional priority over other less threatened species.
4.3. Site and Habitat Protection
In 1991, Morocco took the major step of creating Souss-Massa National Park (33,800 ha) to protect the
breeding roosting and feeding areas known at that time. For Tamri the Government has undertaken an
evaluation specifically aimed to give the region formal protection status.
One major issue has been the need for a stronger protection status for the Tamri area in Morocco which
currently supports over half the world’s wild ibis population but has only formal protection from
hunting. Tamri has been highlighted for increased protection status since the earlier action plan, but to
date this has not been formally agreed or achieved.
In Syria, the area around the breeding colony including the feeding sites has been demarcated as a no
hunting area, and was also proposed and recently declared a designated Protected Area for the NBI. No
wide scale interference is allowed within the area. This formal protection status requires monitoring and
further strengthening, especially in terms of defining the borders according to updated knowledge about
bird land use, of adopting a management plan, hiring staff etc. (Serra et al. 2009b).
In Turkey 180 hectare of Birecik habitat frequented by the ibis was designated as “Wildlife Improvement
Area” in 2011. The management plan has been prepared and waiting for approval.
The regular stop-over areas along the Arabian migration route (in Saudi Arabia and Yemen) once clearly
defined from tracking results may also require protection measures. The main Ethiopian wintering site
is currently regarded as secure and not appropriate for formal protection status, but needs regular
monitoring for potential review on this.
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International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis 27
4.4. Recent Conservation Measures and Coordination of Implementation
4.4.1. AEWA Northern Bald Ibis International Working Group (NBI IWG)
The AEWA Northern Bald Ibis International Working Group was convened by the UNEP/AEWA
Secretariat in 2012, following the earlier adoption of the first AEWA International Single Species Action
Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis at the 3rd Meeting of the AEWA Parties in 2005. In
line with the framework established for AEWA International Species Working Groups, members consist
of designated government representatives and species experts from most of the eight Principle Range
States, the Range States with trial releases as well as observers from international conservation
organisations notably through the expertise network for the species of the International Advisory Group
for Northern Bald Ibis (IAGNBI). Coordination of the Working Group is currently being provided by
the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) on behalf of BirdLife International. All meeting
documents as well as final reports of the Working Group can be found on the AEWA website
(http://www.unep-aewa.org/en/workinggroup/aewa-international-species-working-groups-iswg).
At the time of writing, a website and international workspace provided by the UNEP/AEWA Secretariat
for all Species Working Groups was in development to facilitate the inter-sessional communication
between Working Group members and to communicate the activities of the Working Group to the wider
conservation community. For up-to-date information on Working Group activities, please visit the
Working Group website (http://northernbaldibis.aewa.info).
4.4.2. Recent conservation projects
Ongoing monitoring and some related awareness and rural development work has taken place at both of
the project areas in Morocco and Syria. The monitoring is mentioned below, and in addition some
preliminary satellite tagging work has been carried out in Morocco.
In Morocco, monitoring especially at the breeding and roosting sites has continued and this reinforced
the success of the conservation measures taken up over recent years. Awareness rising by the locally
appointed wardens and the Souss-Massa National Park team, together with socioeconomic projects
implemented are delivering positive results, in the form of respect and cooperation for the breeding,
roosting and feeding areas. The latest rural development project finished in 2010 and included several
aspects including beekeeping, fisheries and ecotourism.
One project is ongoing to clean and improve the quality of the colonies’ ledges to facilitate further
occupation by the birds in sites where disturbance is well controlled. Throughout 2015, surveys are
planned to check potential roosting sites for a group of ibis frequently seen to the north of the currently
monitored area. One bird is also being monitored through satellite tracking since 2011, giving detailed
information on its movements.
In Syria, three conservation projects, under different leadership (FAO, BirdLife International and
IUCN), were run between 2002 and 2010. Low-level wardening has continued sporadically despite the
challenges of more recent civil unrest, and several workshops were held by SSCW in cooperation with
MAAR-GCB with support from BirdLife International and RSPB. These were to assess and inform
stakeholders on the updated status of the NBI population in Syria and to highlight the national Hunting
Regulations and the need to update these laws for the benefit of endangered species (including Sociable
Lapwing) and wildlife in general.
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28 International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis
A reinforcement attempt was made in Syria in 2010 involving an immensely diverse set of partners, and
although ultimately unsuccessful, it showed very promising indications that such an initiative could well
work in future (Bowden et al. 2012).
Further trial releases of small numbers of birds (2007 (4), 2008 (4), 2009 (4), 2011(4), 2013 (7) so in
total 23) have taken place from Birecik, Turkey, with most birds being tagged or satellite tagged. Again
these have not been successful, further indicating very high mortality rates soon after release in
Syria/northern Saudi Arabia (Serra et al. 2014, www.iagnbi.org website).
In Turkey reproductive success has been monitored each year since 2005. A three-year study on foraging
behaviour, examining the relative dependence on artificial (food provided) and natural foraging, the key
sites for natural foraging during the breeding season has just been completed and the results are being
compiled. For identified immediate threats, measures have already been taken. Public awareness
activities targeting locals, particularly farmers, is an ongoing activity for future years, focusing on the
ecological importance of the species and the negative effects of using pesticides.
Because the profile of Northern Bald Ibis has remained relatively low, particularly in Morocco which
ironically holds the main wild population, there is limited political support for prioritising the key actions
required. Awareness-raising in Turkey had important impact, the species being more familiar to a wider
audience there than elsewhere, and means that actions for the species are more likely to receive support.
There have been some recent initiatives and television documentaries in Morocco but clearly more is
needed and this will have a very important long-term impact.
Finally, the International Advisory Group for Northern Bald Ibis11 which was established in 1999 has
continued to provide a network of the key partners involved in work for the species, and provides a web
presence that informs enquiries on the wider situation and all major ongoing work. This virtual group
last held a formal three-day meeting in 2009 in Syria but has continued to provide a channel of contact
between the interested parties. It provides an established body of the key expertise that is available to
the International Working Group for the species.
4.4.3. Monitoring
Regular and intensive monitoring is carried out at the breeding and key roosting sites in Morocco by a
team of locally based wardens. Their work is managed and coordinated by the staff of the Souss-Massa
National Park with support from GREPOM, a national NGO together with SEO/BirdLife. Wardens are
present at all colonies throughout the breeding season, and at key roost sites and feeding areas within
Souss-Massa NP and Tamri, throughout the year, despite an ongoing need to formalise and secure their
employment status. Summaries are produced annually from the information collected.
In Syria, a small team of wardens continues to function despite the difficult working conditions in the
country, and this work is carried out through the General Badia Commission (GBC) with input from
both the Syrian Society for Wildlife Conservation (SSCW) and the BirdLife Middle East office with
RSPB support. Only brief summary reports are possible from this scaled down work. In Ethiopia, an
annual visit is made to the wintering site supported by RSPB, but carried out by experienced Ethiopian
Wildlife and Natural History Society staff.
11 http://www.iagnbi.org
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International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis 29
In Turkey, the semi-wild population is funded and managed by the Turkish Forest and Wildlife Ministry
but has recently been closely and thoroughly monitored by staff of Doga Dernegi (BirdLife Turkey).
Information from the recent monitoring is compiled and will be published and otherwise made available.
4.5. The Potential Role for Reintroduction
Although early reintroduction work encountered major problems and limitations (e.g. Mendelssohn
1994, Pegoraro 1996), many of these issues have been subsequently overcome by using a combination
of initial hand-rearing and imprinting on humans, followed by a progression of soft release techniques.
Thus despite several early setbacks, there are now established methodologies available for the re-
establishment of sedentary populations (Kotrschal 2001) and there are very encouraging signs of these
being adapted in Spain, and even methodologies for re-establishing migratory populations in central
Europe are being developed.
The work at Gruenau in Austria showed that the combination of intensive hand rearing/imprinting and
exposure of the birds to a variety of terrains, can, with the necessary care, lead to maintaining a stable
social structure. An important element was the enclosure of the birds during the pre-migration period
(ten weeks is sufficient, and only required for the first 2-3 years), which is effective for establishing the
population. During and after the period of enclosure, the human involvement can gradually be reduced.
The major issue in Austria is that the birds cannot survive the winter on site and so food provisioning
and enclosure is necessary through the winter.
More recent attention has focused on simplifying and reducing costs in the lengthy methodology in
Spain (Quevedo pers. comm.) and also on addressing the significantly greater challenges involved in
establishing a migratory population (Fritz pers. comm.). In both cases, major headway has been made
in developing methodology and techniques. Free-flying birds are now breeding in the wild in both cases.
In summary, with the significant progress over the past five to ten years, conservation translocation and
especially reintroduction has become a serious option to consider among the potential ways to re-
establish or increase the overall population of the species in the wild. It was agreed during the 1st meeting
of the AEWA NBI IWG (November 2012, Jazan, Saudi Arabia), that Algeria should be the higher
priority for a reintroduction programme for the western population, being further from the existing wild
population but in areas that have held birds relatively recently (within the past 25 years). Turkey was
considered the next priority or possibly further south (either Syria or possibly elsewhere within the
Arabian Peninsula, e.g. further south along the flyway of the Syrian population) for reintroduction or
reinforcement of the eastern population, but again, subject to further evaluation in both cases, with
reference to the AEWA Translocation Guidelines, expert opinion and other practical considerations.
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30 International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis
5. Ongoing Translocation Projects and their Potential Association with the ISSAP
The two main European release projects in central Europe and Spain respectively have developed
independently of the AEWA process and strategic planning. Their aims are to create self-sustaining
populations, and the EU LIFE+ project (cf. 5.2 below) also has important elements to evaluate the
genetics of captive populations which has, so far, developed primers and should produce published
outputs in the near future.
Early soft release trials using captive stock encountered major problems (Pegoraro 2003, Mendelssohn
1994), having no success in establishing birds in a wild state despite multiple trials. This highlighted the
fact that translocation and releases required major advances before they could be regarded as a useful
tool for the re-establishment of populations into the wild. Earlier action plans and red data book accounts
have therefore not considered translocation to be a priority action, instead putting emphasis on in situ
actions and, to a lesser extent, on the development of translocation methodology.
Since the development of the first AEWA International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation
of the Northern Bald Ibis in 2005, there have been some significant advances in this area, and two
projects have taken the initiative in the process of developing release methodology, which later
converted into full translocation programmes. This has been done outside the prioritised action-planning
process, and before these can be incorporated, there is a need to systematically review the projects with
their objectives, justifications and implementation against the AEWA criteria.
5.1 Translocation project in Spain
The Spanish project ‘Proyecto eremita’ started in 2003 and has been mainly supported by the Andalusian
Government although it comprises multiple partners. Early testing of techniques including cross-
fostering with Cattle Egrets but evolved into less intensive hand-rearing methodology than the Austrian
techniques, using ‘characterised hand-rearing’ by a larger team of human foster parents wearing
characteristic clothing and headgear. Although a larger proportion of birds was lost than in Austria, it
has ultimately been successful in establishing an essentially sedentary population.
There is now an independent non-migratory colony of 14 breeding pairs that is becoming well-
established in the area, mainly at one location within 40 km of the release site. The project is currently
running at a low and unintensive level, consisting mainly of monitoring, with annual supplementation.
Problems of electrocution (caused by poor pylon design), wider dispersal, rat nest-predation as well as
other losses have been addressed in specific areas, and the birds are now thought to be close to being
self-sustaining.
5.2 Translocation project for a migratory population breeding in Austria
The European EU LIFE+ project (LIFE+12-BIO_AT_000143) has developed from a 12-year feasibility
study which has established a small migratory breeding colony in Austria. Since 2011, up to 30 birds
independently migrate between breeding sites north of the Alps and a wintering site in southern Tuscany,
Italy. They breed regularly and lead juveniles to the wintering area usually without human intervention
in more recent years. All birds are GPS tracked to follow their movements. The major objective of the
EU LIFE+ project is the reintroduction of a self-sustaining, migratory Northern Bald Ibis population in
central Europe and, more specifically, the establishment of three breeding colonies north of the Alps
(120+ individuals) by the end of 2019.
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International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis 31
Further major objectives are
1. The development of methodology for the reintroduction of migratory populations;
2. A sustainable reduction of illegal hunting in Italy;
3. Extensive veterinary screening of the released population;
4. Development of genetic markers and detailed NBI genetics study to optimize the genetic
variability of the zoo breeding stock and for release: and
5. Basic science on aspects of bird’s flight and bird’s migration. The project has a large team
involved and the outputs from this work attract significant media profile, and are constantly
updated on websites as well as through a series of publications.
Both projects have been developed outside the AEWA framework and processes and without prior
strategic agreement that these locations represent the priority or preferred locations. Neither was initiated
as a reintroduction project although both have undoubtedly progressed highly relevant methodologies
and full publication of these methodological advances will be an important contribution. Before they
can be considered for full association with this ISSAP, it seems appropriate to undertake an AEWA-led
review of their objectives, justification and status, utilising the criteria laid out in the AEWA guidelines
on translocation (AEWA Conservation Guidelines No. 13)12.
With the above points in mind, the key actions required are as follows:
Establish a detailed scientific record of the release methodologies used in successful (and
unsuccessful) cases;
(Ongoing) monitoring of released populations including satellite tracking or similar;
Detailed assessment of the self-sustainability of trial populations and regular reviews of
documentation of methodology and potential lessons for use in main flyways and with reference
to the AEWA Translocation Guidelines.
The results of these actions will be assessed, amongst other things, before deciding on the association
of these projects to a future form of this ISSAP.
12 http://www.unep-aewa.org/en/publication/aewa-conservation-guidelines-no13-guidelines-translocation-
waterbirds-conservation
AEWA Technical Series No. 55
32 International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis
6. Framework for Action
Goal: Restore the Northern Bald Ibis to a favourable conservation status.
Indicator Means of verification
Downlist the species from the globally
threatened categories on the IUCN Red List and
from Column A, Category 1 of the AEWA
Table 1
IUCN Red List and related discussion forums;
AEWA Table 1
Purpose: Increase population size and breeding range in the wild by 2025.
Indicator Means of verification
Two new colonies (of five or more pairs each)
established away from current breeding sites in
Morocco or other former sites, and Moroccan
population continuing to increase to 700
individuals
Reports and publications from Morocco, Turkey,
Syria, Algeria
Four Objectives have been identified to deliver the goal:
Objective 1: Increase reproduction success;
Objective 2: Reduce adult/juvenile mortality;
Objective 3: Establish new colonies;
Objective 4: Fill key knowledge gaps.
For each Objective, a number of related Results have been identified, which are to be achieved through
the implementation of specific Actions, which address the identified key threats (Tables 8-11 below).
Actions should be implemented in all range states and significant progress should be made on all
activities by 2025 unless otherwise indicated. It should be noted that the prioritisation of activities will
not be equally applicable to all range states.
The main focus of this International Single Species Action Plan is on the conservation of the remaining
wild and semi-wild Western and Eastern populations. Range states are encouraged to adopt National
Action Plans for the species, which should incorporate the relevant results and actions outlined in this
plan. The AEWA Northern Bald Ibis International Working Group will provide further coordination and
assist range states with the implementation of the plan as well as assess implementation progress based
on information provided by the range states.
AEWA Technical Series No. 55
International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis 33
Table 8. Objective 1: Increase reproduction success
Indicator: Breeding productivity figures above 1.2 chicks fledged per breeding pair in each colony
(including semi-wild Turkish population)
Verification: Monitoring, field survey and project reports, National Reports submitted to meetings of
the AEWA Northern Bald Ibis International Working Group, papers published in peer
reviewed scientific journals.
[Timescales: Immediate: Initiated by 2016; Short: 2017-18; Medium: By 2020; Long: By 2022-25]
Result Action Priority Timescale Organisations
1.1. Chick
mortality on
nest is
minimised
1.1.1. Prevent human
disturbance and
incidental nest
destruction by
predators such as
ravens through close
monitoring
Applicable: Morocco,
Syria & Turkey
High Ongoing Haut-Commissariat aux
Eaux et Forêt et à la lutte
Contre la Désertification
(HCFLCD), GREPOM
General Badia
Commission (GBC)
Ministry of Forestry and
Water Affairs
1.1.2. Collect
discarded/lost fishing
lines and nets around
colonies
Applicable: Morocco
Medium Ongoing HCEFLCD, GREPOM
1.1.3. Increase
awareness amongst
fishermen
Applicable: Morocco
Medium Ongoing HCEFLCD, GREPOM
1.1.4. Provide (safe)
nesting material around
colonies
Applicable: Morocco,
Syria
Medium Immediate HCEFLCD, GREPOM
General Badia
Commission (GBC)
1.1.5. Improve nesting
ledges if Syrian
population increases
Applicable: Syria
High As needed General Badia
Commission (GBC)
1.2. Food
availability is
increased
1.2.1. Maintain the
reservoir in proximity
of the colony
High Ongoing General Badia
Commission (GBC)
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34 International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis
Result Action Priority Timescale Organisations
Applicable: Syria
1.2.2. Establish food
availability monitoring
and alarm system for
cases of drought
Applicable: Morocco,
Syria
High Short- by
2017
HCEFLCD, GREPOM
1.3. Improved
access to
water
1.3.1. Maintain supply
of fresh water at
waterholes close to
colonies
Applicable: Morocco
Medium Ongoing HCEFLCD,GREEPOM
1.3.2. Establish
emergency water ponds
for cases of drought
Applicable: Syria
High Ongoing General Badia
Commission (GBC)
1.4. Catastrophic
impact of
diseases
prevented
1.4.1. Maintain regular
monitoring and hygiene
protocol
Applicable: Turkey
High Immediate Ministry of Forestry and
Water Affairs
1.4.2. Create new semi-
wild population away
from Birecik
Applicable: Turkey
High Immediate Ministry of Forestry and
Water Affairs
1.4.3. Establish disease
emergency response
system
Applicable: Morocco,
Turkey
High Immediate HCEFLCD, GREPOM
Ministry of Forestry and
Water Affairs
1.4.4. Raise awareness
among domestic bird
farmers
Applicable Morocco
High Medium –
by 2016
HCEFLCD, GREPOM
1.4.5. Enforce protocols
for carcass and waste
removal from domestic
High Medium Relevant state authorities
AEWA Technical Series No. 55
International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis 35
Result Action Priority Timescale Organisations
bird farms in case of
outbreaks
Applicable: Morocco
1.4.6. Apply stringent
health control and
screening of captive
birds prior to
conservation
translocation
Applicable: ALL
High As needed Government institutions in
charge of nature
conservation in
collaboration with NBI
experts and relevant
stakeholders
1.5. Reduced
intra-specific
competition for
nesting sites
1.5.1. Enlarge and
improve nesting ledges
Applicable: Morocco
High Immediate HCEFLCD, GREPOM
1.5.2. Test and
establish artificial
ledges
Applicable: Morocco
High Immediate HCEFLCD, GREPOM
1.6. Human
disturbance is
minimised
1.6.1. Maintain and
improve wardening in
the colonies
Applicable: Morocco,
Syria
Essential Ongoing HCEFLCD, GREPOM
General Badia
Commission (GBC)
1.6.2. Increase
awareness amongst
local people and
visitors
Applicable: Morocco,
Syria
High Ongoing HCEFLCD, GREPOM
General Badia
Commission (GBC),
Syrian Society for the
Conservation of Wildlife
(SSCW)
1.6.3. Provide
alternative water
sources for pastoralists
Applicable: Syria
Medium Medium General Badia
Commission (GBC)
1.6.4. Manage access
by pastoralists to
existing water sources
Applicable: Syria
Medium Short General Badia
Commission (GBC)
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36 International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis
Result Action Priority Timescale Organisations
1.6.5. Designate all
colonies as protected
Applicable: Morocco,
Syria, Turkey
Essential Medium HCEFLCD
General Badia
Commission (GBC))-
Ministry of Agriculture
and Agrarian Reform
(MAAR)
Ministry of Forestry and
Water Affairs
1.6.6. Develop and
implement management
plans for the protected
areas
Applicable: Morocco,
Syria, Turkey
Essential Medium HCEFLCD
General Badia
Commission (GBC))-
Ministry of Agriculture
and Agrarian Reform
(MAAR)Ministry of
Forestry and Water
Affairs
1.7. Predation is
minimised
1.7.1. Monitor
predation levels
Applicable: Morocco,
Syria
Essential Immediate/
Short
HCEFLCD
General Badia
Commission (GBC)
1.7.2. Undertake
predation control
measures when
necessary
Applicable: Morocco,
Syria
Essential As needed HCEFLCD
General Badia
Commission (GBC)
1.8. Problematic
buildings on cliffs
are removed and
new ones
prevented
1.8.1. Strengthen
enforcement of
legislation, also through
the involvement of
other authorities than
NP
Applicable: Morocco
Essential Ongoing HCEFLCD, Relevant state
authorities
1.9. Impact of
collapse of
breeding cliffs is
minimised
1.9.1. Evaluate
possibility of
improving current
roosting sites as
potential new breeding
sites
Applicable: Morocco
Medium Medium HCEFLCD, GREPOM
AEWA Technical Series No. 55
International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis 37
Table 9. Objective 2: Reduce adult/juvenile mortality
Indicator: No reports of mortality caused by human-induced factors
Verification: Monitoring, field survey and project reports, National Reports submitted to meetings
of the AEWA Northern Bald Ibis International Working Group, papers published in
peer reviewed scientific journals.
[Timescales: Immediate: Initiated by 2016; Short: 2017-18; Medium: By 2020; Long: By 2022-25]
Result Action Priority Timescale Organisations
2.1. Impact of
locust treatment
is prevented
2.1.1. Continue work with locust
control unit to avoid toxic
treatment within Souss Massa
NP
Applicable: Morocco
Essential Ongoing HCEFLCD
2.2. Illegal
killing and
trapping is
minimised
2.2.1. Raise awareness among
hunter/falconers on satellite
tagging and NBI conservation
Applicable: Saudi Arabia
High Ongoing Saudi Wildlife
Authority
2.2.2. Reduce visibility of
satellite tags by finding
alternative means of attachment
Applicable: ALL
High Ongoing Project teams
2.2.3. Raise awareness among
hunters/trappers and/or general
public on NBI in key areas,
where needed
Applicable: ALL
Essential Short Relevant state
authorities
2.3. Risk of
electrocution
and collision
with power lines
is minimised
2.3.1. Identify critical and
dangerous power lines around
known key sites
Applicable: ALL
High Short Relevant state
authorities
2.3.2. Retrofit design or put
dangerous sections of power
lines underground
Applicable: ALL
High Long Relevant state
authorities
2.3.3. Take NBI into account in
SEA/EIA procedures for new
power lines (possible re-routing)
around key areas
High Ongoing Relevant state
authorities
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38 International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis
Result Action Priority Timescale Organisations
Applicable: ALL
2.3.4. Introduce bird safe
standards into national
regulations
Applicable: ALL
Medium Long Relevant state
authorities
2.4.
Establishment of
windfarms close
to key sites is
avoided
2.4.1. Exclude NBI key areas
from renewable energy
development
Applicable: ALL
High Short Relevant state
authorities
2.4.2. take NBI into account in
SEA/EIA procedures for
windfarms (possible re-location)
around key areas
Applicable: ALL
High Ongoing/
As needed
Relevant state
authorities
2.5. Survival
chance of
dispersing
juveniles is
increased
2.5.1. Identify feeding and
roosting sites outside Souss-
Massa/Tamri and assess their
status
Applicable: Morocco
Essential Short HCEFLCD,
GREPOM
2.5.2. Put conservation measures
in place as necessary
Applicable: Morocco
Essential Medium HCEFLCD
2.6. Decline in
area of feeding
habitat is
minimised
2.6.1. Monitor and control sand
extraction activities; enforce
existing legislation
Applicable: Turkey
Medium Ongoing Ministry of
Forestry and
Water Affairs
2.6.2. Promote NBI-friendly
crop pattern, e.g. by subsidising
Applicable: Morocco, Turkey
Essential Medium HCEFLCD
Ministry of
Forestry and
Water Affairs
NGOs
2.6.3. Promotion of low-input
crops
Applicable: Morocco, Turkey
Essential Medium HCEFLCD,
Relevant state
authorities
Ministry of
Forestry and
Water Affairs
NGOs
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International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis 39
Result Action Priority Timescale Organisations
2.6.4. Promote eco-friendly
source of income
Applicable: Morocco, Turkey
Essential Short HCEFLCD,
GREPOM
Ministry of
Forestry and
Water Affairs
NGOs
2.6.5. Promote NBI-based
tourism for direct benefit to
local community
Applicable: Morocco, Turkey
Essential Short HCEFLCD,
GREPOM
Ministry of
Forestry and
Water Affairs
NGOs
2.7. Habitat
loss/degradation
due to
infrastructure/
urban
development is
minimised
2.7.1. NBI areas taken into
account in physical planning and
SEA/EIA procedures
Applicable: ALL
Essential Ongoing Relevant state
authorities
2.8.
Desertification of
habitat in key
areas is
prevented or
mitigated
2.8.1. Regulate agriculture
activities in key areas
Applicable: Saudi Arabia
Medium Medium /
Long
Saudi Wildlife
Authority
2.8.2. Regulate grazing in key
areas (through promotion of
sustainable practices with local
communities)
Applicable: Ethiopia, Morocco,
Syria, Yemen
High Medium Relevant state
authorities
2.8.3. Support provision of
alternative sources of energy
(gas, solar, etc.) and improve
energy use efficiency
Applicable: Syria, Morocco
High Long Relevant state
authorities
2.8.4. Enforce environmental
regulations on charcoal
production
Applicable: Yemen
Medium Ongoing State authority
2.8.5. Identify degraded habitats
in key areas and restore them
Applicable: ALL
Medium Long Relevant state
authorities
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40 International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis
Table 10. Objective 3: Establish new colonies
Indicator: One site away from Souss-Massa colonised in Morocco, a population established in
Algeria, and a semi-wild population established away from Birecik in Turkey.
Verification: Monitoring, field survey and project reports, National Reports submitted to meetings of
the AEWA Northern Bald Ibis International Working Group, papers published in peer
reviewed scientific journals.
[Timescales: Immediate: Initiated by 2016; Short: 2017-18; Medium: By 2020; Long: By 2022-25]
Result Action Priority Timescale Organisations
3.1. Eastern
population
increased 5-fold
3.1.1. Develop project for
further reinforcement of the
Syrian population and
implement it
Applicable: Syria, Turkey
Essential Immediate Relevant state
authorities
3.2. Semi-wild
population in
Birecik is
maintained at a
minimum of 150
birds
3.2.1. Continue the conservation
programme in Birecik
Applicable: Turkey
Essential Ongoing Ministry of
Forestry and
Water Affairs
3.3. A wild
migratory
population is
established in
Birecik
3.3.1. Further releases from
Birecik
Applicable: Turkey
High Ongoing Ministry of
Forestry and
Water Affairs
3.4. Semi-wild
population
established at a
second site in
Turkey (ideally
in area
compatible with
3.5)
3.4.1. Identify potential areas
and undertake feasibility studies
and risk assessments
Applicable: Turkey
High Short Ministry of
Forestry and
Water Affairs
3.5. A wild
population is
established away
from Birecik
3.5.1. Identify potential areas
for reintroduction and undertake
feasibility studies and risk
assessments
Applicable: Turkey
High Short Ministry of
Forestry and
Water Affairs
3.5.2. Implement reintroduction
upon positive conclusions from
feasibility studies and risk
assessments
High Long Ministry of
Forestry and
Water Affairs
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International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis 41
Result Action Priority Timescale Organisations
Applicable: Turkey
3.6. Sites away
from Souss-
Massa/Tamri are
re-colonised/
colonised
3.6.1. Monitor and assess
potential/feasibility of
roosting/former colony sites
which are visited by birds
Applicable: Morocco
Essential Short HCEFLCD,
GREPOM
3.6.2. Improve conditions in the
most favourably assessed sites
to attract breeders
Applicable: Morocco
Essential Medium HCEFLCD,
GREPOM
3.7. A population
is re-established
in Algeria
3.7.1. Identify potential areas
for reintroduction, including
possible wintering areas and
undertake feasibility studies and
risk assessments
Applicable: Algeria
Medium Short Relevant state
authorities
Researchers
3.7.2. Implement reintroduction
upon positive conclusions of the
feasibility studies and risk
assessments
Applicable: Algeria
Medium Medium/
Long
Relevant state
authorities
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42 International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis
Table 11. Objective 4: Fill key knowledge gaps
Indicator: High priority knowledge gaps are filled by 2018 and medium priority gaps filled by
2025.
Verification: Monitoring, field survey and project reports, National Reports submitted to meetings
of the AEWA Northern Bald Ibis International Working Group, papers published in
peer reviewed scientific journals.
[Timescales: Immediate: Initiated by 2016; Short: 2017-18; Medium: By 2020; Long: By 2022-25]
Result Action Priority Timescale Organisations
4.1. Use of dispersal sites
and suitability for
colonisation as breeding
sites is identified
4.1.1. Assess suitability
of nesting and feeding
areas
Applicable: Morocco
High 2018 HCEFLCD,
GREPOM
4.2. Potential for re-
colonisation of former
breeding sites is
identified
4.2.1. Assess suitability
of nesting and feeding
areas
Applicable: Morocco
High 2018 HCEFLCD,
GREPOM, SEO
4.3. A method of
managing juveniles after
split up from migrating
flock is developed
4.3.1. Undertake trial
with experimental flock
Applicable: All
High 2018 LIFE+ project
team
4.4. Population viability
assessment for both
Western and Eastern
populations is available
4.4.1. Run and publish
population viability
assessment
Applicable: ALL
Medium 2025 IUCN SSC CBSG
(Conservation
Breeding)
4.5. Use of stop-over and
wintering sites by birds is
determined
4.5.1. Undertake field
surveys
Applicable: ALL
Medium 2025 LIFE+ project
team
4.6. Actual sites identified
through satellite tracking
have been verified on the
grounds, delineated and
mapped
4.6.1. Undertake field
work and mapping
Applicable: [Turkey]
Medium 2025 Ministry of
Forestry and
Water Affairs
4.7. Feeding micro-
habitat selection in
breeding, stop-over and
wintering areas
understood
4.7.1. Undertake studies
Applicable: ALL
Medium 2025 Ministry of
Forestry and
Water Affairs
(Turkey)
LIFE+ project
team
4.8. Genetic make-up and
levels of
inbreeding/outbreeding
4.8.1. Collect samples at
any possible occasion
Medium 2025 LIFE+ project
team
AEWA Technical Series No. 55
International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis 43
Result Action Priority Timescale Organisations
have been determined in
Syrian and Turkish
populations
Applicable: all Eastern
population range states
4.8.2. Undertake genetic
analysis and publish
results
Applicable: all Eastern
population range states
Medium 2025 LIFE+ project
team
4.9. Juvenile dispersal in
Moroccan population is
mapped
4.9.1. Satellite telemetry
study
Applicable: Morocco
Medium 2025 HCEFLCD,
GREPOM
Researchers
4.9.2. Ground verification
Applicable: Morocco,
Medium 2025 HCEFLCD,
GREPOM
Researchers
4.10. Potential risk of
power line collision and
electrocution is
understood
4.10.1. Undertake
assessment of risks
through monitoring
Applicable: ALL
Medium 2025 Relevant state
authorities and
research agencies
4.11. Reasons for
extinction of former
colonies are understood
and documented
4.11.1. Design and
undertake study
Applicable: Morocco
Medium 2025 To be designated
by HCEFLCD
7. Awareness Raising and Communication Work
Despite the extreme rarity, distinctiveness, historical and cultural significance of this species, the
Northern Bald Ibis has a distinctly low profile particularly in the main country (Morocco) where it
persists in a natural state. There have been some recent initiatives to try to improve this through
television documentaries, local environmental education programme initiatives in Souss-Massa
National Park, targeting young people through posters/brochures etc. and it is very notable how the
revival of former traditions in Turkey and a major publicity campaign by WWF over thirty years ago in
that country have had major impacts which remain to this day. The increased familiarisation has
improved public interest and this higher profile results both in better responsiveness of the relevant
authorities to implementing actions for the species, as well as more potential funding and support
opportunities from within the country.
A species with a low profile may not qualify as an overt threat and cannot be treated as such, but this
does not mean it shouldn’t receive priority action and attention. Steps to seek and revive local cultural
values of the bird, and to produce publications including books and brochures as well as running
carefully-managed awareness events (often targeting children) are the types of activity that have been
successful elsewhere. It is not necessarily an area that government can be expected to initiate itself, but
it can facilitate and potentially even support local or national associations or NGOs to carry out such
work in partnership. Both Morocco and probably Algeria are the main relevant areas where such
AEWA Technical Series No. 55
44 International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis
additional efforts would be most beneficial, but they need to be carried out with full coordination of
governments, especially National Park staff, as they may instigate increased pressures at the sensitive
field sites if they successfully increase interest, and these need to be managed and taken care of through
combined and planned efforts. Promoting ibis statues or other culturally relevant profile-raising
initiatives are further options to consider here. Wider international and release projects can also
contribute to this aim, and again, building links is a very important aspect of this.
AEWA Technical Series No. 55
International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis 45
8. References
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habitat use of Northern Bald Ibis, Geronticus eremita, in the Souss-Massa National Park,
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Akçakaya, H. R. 1990. Bald Ibis Geronticus eremita population in Turkey: an evaluation of the captive
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Collar N. J., Stuart S. N. 1985 Northern Bald Ibis Geronticus eremita. In: Collar NJ (Ed.) Threatened
birds of Africa and related islands. The ICBP/IUCN Red Data Book, Part 1, International Council
for Bird Preservation, Cambridge, pp 74–108.
Böhm, C. (Ed) 2006. Northern Bald Ibis Geronticus eremita, 2nd EEP Studbook 2006 Alpenzoo,
Innsbruck-Tyrol.
Boehm, C. & K. Pegoraro (2011): Der Waldrapp.- Neue Brehm Bücherei 659.
Bowden, C. G. R., Aghnaj, A., Smith, K. W. & Ribi, M. 2003. The status and recent breeding
performance of the critically endangered Northern Bald Ibis Geronticus eremita population on
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Bowden, C. G. R., Smith, K. W., El Bekkay, M., Oubrou, W., Aghnaj, A. & Jimenez-Armesto, M. 2008. Contribution of research to conservation action for the Northern Bald Ibis Geronticus
eremita in Morocco. Bird Conserv Int 18:74–90.
Bowden, C. G. R., Hamoud, A., Jbour, S., Fritz, J., Peske, L., Riedler, B., Lindsell, J. A., Al
Shaiesh, M., Abdallah. A., Boehm, C., Hatipoglu, T., Tavares, J. P., Al Salamah, M.,
Shobrak, M. & Serra, G. 2012. Attempted supplementation of the relict wild Eastern population
of Northern Bald Ibis in Syria with Turkish semi-wild juveniles. IUCN Reintroduction Specialists
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Broderick,D., Korrida, A. & Idaghdour, Y. (2001) Genetic diversity in the last remaining wild
population of Northern Bald Ibis (Geronticus eremita); preliminary results inferred from mtDNA
sequence data. Newslett Int. Advisory Group Northern Bald Ibis 1:25–26
Cunningham, A. A. 2000. Investigation of disease threats to the Northern Bald Ibis Geronticus eremita
in Morocco. Report on behalf of the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds and Souss-Massa
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46 International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis
Portugal, S. J., Hubel, T. Y., Fritz, J., Heese, S., Trobe, D., Voelkl, B., Hailes, S., Wilson, A. M. &
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Voelkl, B., Portugal, S. J., Unsöld, M., Wilson, A. M. & Fritz, J. subm. Flip for flap: Direct
reciprocation in taking the lead can help Northern bald ibis to reduce costs of migration flights.
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Hancock, J. A., Kushlan, J. A. & Kahl, M. P. 1992. Storks, ibises and spoonbills of the world.
Academic Press, London.
Hirsch, U. 1979. Studies of West Palearctic birds. 183 Bald Ibis.Br. Birds 72: 313–325.
Kotrschal, K. (1999). Trapped in „Noah's Ark“? The Grünau Bald Ibis Project. 2nd Int. EEP Studbook,
36-51, Alpenzoo Innsbruck (1999).
Sorato, E. & Kotrschal, K. Hormonal and behavioural symmetries between the sexes in the Northern
bald ibis (Geronticus eremita). Journal of Comparative Endocrinology, 146, 265-274 (2006)
Kotrschal, K. 2001. The Grünau project is in its 5th year: How to establish a Waldrapp Geronticus
eremita colony from scratch. Proceedings of the International Advisory Group for the Northern
Bald Ibis (IAGNBI): Newsletter 2001.
Kumerloeve, H. 1962. Zur Geschichte der Waldrapp-Kolonie in Birecik am oberen Euphrat. J. Ornithol.
103: 389-398.
Kumerloeve, H. 1984. The Waldrapp, Geronticus eremita (Linnaeus, 1758): historical review,
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AEWA Technical Series No. 55
48 International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis
Appendix 1 - AEWA Northern Bald Ibis International Working Group Terms of
Reference13
Goals (as defined in the International Single Species Action Plan for the Northern Bald Ibis)
To conserve the Northern Bald Ibis by securing the wild colonies, increasing the number of
birds and improving our understanding of their needs;
Increase the number of breeding colonies;
Preserve the stop-over and wintering sites and make the E population flyway safe for the birds
Role
The role of the AEWA Northern Bald Ibis International Working Group will be to:
1) coordinate and catalyse the implementation of the International Northern Bald Ibis Single
Species Action Plan (SSAP);
2) stimulate and support Range States in the implementation of the SSAP; and
3) monitor and report on the implementation and the effectiveness of the SSAP.
Scope
The AEWA Northern Bald Ibis International Working Group will:
set priorities for action and implement them;
coordinate the overall international implementation;
raise funds for implementation;
assist Range States in producing national action plans;
ensure regular and thorough monitoring of the species populations;
stimulate and support scientific research in the species necessary for conservation;
promote the protection of the network of critical sites for the species;
facilitate internal and external communication and exchange of scientific, technical, legal and
other required information, including with other specialists and interested parties;
assist with information in determination of the red list status and population size and trends of
the species;
regularly monitor the effectiveness of implementation of the SSAP and take appropriate action
according to the findings of this monitoring;
regularly report on the implementation of the SSAP to the AEWA Meeting of the Parties
through the National Focal Points; and
update the international SSAP in 2015 or as required.
Membership
The AEWA Northern Bald Ibis International Working Group will comprise (1) designated
representatives of national state authorities in charge of the implementation of AEWA and (2)
representatives of national expert and conservation organisations as invited to the national delegations
by the state authorities from all major Range States.
13 As approved by the 1st Meeting of the AEWA Northern Bald Ibis International Working Group, 19-22
November 2012, Jazan, Saudi Arabia. These Terms of Reference will be updated at the 2nd Meeting of the AEWA
Northern Bald Ibis International Working Group to reflect the revised Species Action Plan (AEWA Technical
Series No. 55).
AEWA Technical Series No. 55
International Single Species Action Plan for the Conservation of the Northern Bald Ibis 49
Countries forming the working group: Eritrea, Ethiopia, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Turkey and
Yemen.
Observer countries where captive breeding/reintroduction projects are currently proposed or
ongoing: Spain, Austria, Italy, Germany and Algeria.
The Chair of the AEWA Northern Bald Ibis International Working Group may invite and admit
international expert and conservation organisations as well as individual experts as observers to the
Working Group, as necessary. Observer organisation confirmed by the Range States at the first meeting
of the Working Group is the International Advisory Group on the Northern Bald Ibis (IAGNBI).
Officers
A Chairperson of the AEWA Northern Bald Ibis International Working Group will be elected amongst
its members.
A part-time Coordinator will be nominated by BirdLife International from within the BirdLife
Partnership, with a medium term objective to establish this role at BirdLife International. The
Coordinator will be in charge of the day-to-day operations of the Working Group and shall act in close
cooperation with the Chairperson and the AEWA Secretariat.
The designated representatives of national state authorities will act as National Focal Points for the
SSAP and will be the main contact persons for the Chairperson and the Coordinator.
Meetings
The AEWA Northern Bald Ibis International Working Group should aim to hold face-to-face meetings
once every three years. Other face-to-face meetings may be arranged as circumstances allow (e.g. back-
to-back meetings with other international fora). Between meetings, business will be conducted
electronically via Working Group’s website and list server.
Reporting
A thorough report on the implementation of the SSAP will be produced according to a standard format
with contributions from all Range States and submitted for inclusion into the general International
Review on the Stage of Preparation and Implementation of Single Species Action Plans to the AEWA
Meeting of the Parties. Reports shall also be prepared by each Range State to a format agreed by the
Working Group and presented at each face-to-face meeting of the Working Group. These National
Reports shall be submitted to the Coordinator at the latest three months prior to the date of the next
Meeting of the Working Group. Financial support for meeting attendance and for the implementation of
the SSAP for eligible range states (according to AEWA MOP decisions) will be coupled with the timely
submission of national reports. Other reports will be produced as required by the AEWA Technical
Committee or the AEWA Secretariat.
Financing
The operations of the AEWA Northern Bald Ibis International Working Group, including the
coordinator post, as necessary, are to be financed primarily by its members and, if applicable, by its
observers; the UNEP/AEWA Secretariat cannot commit regular financial support and may only provide
such if possible. Funding for SSAP activities of the Working Group or its members is to be sought from
various sources.
UNEP/AEWA SecretariatUN CampusPlatz der Vereinten Nationen 153113 BonnGermanyTel.: +49 (0)228 815 2413Fax: +49 (0)228 815 [email protected]